Overview of XC4044XLA-09HQ208I Field Programmable Gate Array
The XC4044XLA-09HQ208I is a high-performance Field Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) from the renowned XC4000XLA family, designed and manufactured by Xilinx (now part of AMD). This industrial-grade FPGA delivers exceptional processing capabilities with 1,600 Configurable Logic Blocks (CLBs), 27,000 gates, and advanced routing resources, making it an ideal solution for complex digital designs requiring reliability and versatility.
As part of the XC4000XLA series, this FPGA component represents cutting-edge programmable logic technology from the mid-to-late 1990s era, continuing to serve mission-critical applications in industrial automation, telecommunications, aerospace, and legacy system maintenance. For comprehensive solutions across the Xilinx FPGA product line, engineers can explore various application-specific configurations.
Key Technical Specifications
Core Architecture Features
| Specification |
Value |
| Part Number |
XC4044XLA-09HQ208I |
| Manufacturer |
Xilinx (AMD) |
| Product Family |
XC4000XLA Field Programmable Gate Array |
| Configurable Logic Blocks (CLBs) |
1,600 |
| System Gates |
27,000 |
| Usable Gates |
44,000 (typical) |
| Logic Cells |
3,800 |
| User Registers |
3,840 |
Performance Characteristics
| Parameter |
Specification |
| Speed Grade |
-09 (227 MHz maximum frequency) |
| Technology Node |
0.35μm CMOS |
| Operating Voltage |
3.3V ± 5% |
| Operating Temperature Range |
-40°C to +100°C (Industrial grade) |
| Maximum Toggle Frequency |
227 MHz |
Package and Pin Configuration
| Package Details |
Specifications |
| Package Type |
HQFP (Heat-Sink Quad Flat Pack) |
| Total Pins |
208 |
| User I/O Pins |
Up to 166 |
| Package Dimensions |
28mm x 28mm |
| Body Thickness |
Enhanced thermal management design |
| Moisture Sensitivity Level |
MSL 3 |
Memory and Storage Resources
| Memory Type |
Capacity |
| Total RAM |
6.3 kB (6,400 bits) |
| Block RAM |
Distributed RAM architecture |
| CLB RAM Bits |
32 bits per CLB |
| Configuration Memory |
One-time programmable or reprogrammable |
Product Features and Capabilities
Advanced Architecture Benefits
The XC4044XLA-09HQ208I offers superior architectural features that distinguish it from competitive FPGA solutions:
- High-Density Logic Integration: With 1,600 CLBs providing 27,000 system gates, this FPGA handles complex combinatorial and sequential logic designs
- Flexible I/O Standards: Supports multiple voltage standards including TTL, CMOS, and various specialty interfaces
- Hierarchical Routing Resources: Advanced interconnect architecture ensures optimal signal timing and minimal routing congestion
- Deterministic Timing: Predictable routing delays enable precise timing closure for high-speed applications
- Low Power Consumption: Efficient 0.35μm CMOS process technology minimizes power requirements
Design Implementation Advantages
- Rapid Prototyping Capability: Field-programmable nature allows quick design iterations
- Cost-Effective Development: Eliminates NRE costs associated with ASIC development
- In-System Reconfigurability: Supports remote updates and feature enhancements
- Proven Reliability: Industrial temperature range ensures operation in harsh environments
- Legacy System Support: Maintains compatibility with existing XC4000 designs
Applications and Use Cases
Primary Application Domains
The XC4044XLA-09HQ208I excels in various demanding applications:
Industrial Automation and Control
- Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs)
- Motion control systems
- Factory automation equipment
- Process monitoring and control
- Industrial protocol converters
Communications and Networking
- Protocol translation and bridging
- Digital signal processing
- Data encryption/decryption
- Network interface controllers
- Telecommunications switching equipment
Aerospace and Defense
- Avionics control systems
- Radar signal processing
- Secure communication systems
- Flight control computers
- Guidance and navigation systems
Medical Equipment
- Diagnostic imaging systems
- Patient monitoring devices
- Laboratory instrumentation
- Medical imaging processors
- Therapeutic equipment controllers
Test and Measurement
- Automatic test equipment (ATE)
- Logic analyzers
- Protocol analyzers
- Oscilloscope trigger systems
- Signal generators
Design Tools and Development Support
Compatible Software Environments
| Tool Suite |
Version Compatibility |
| ISE Foundation |
ISE 10.1 – 14.7 (recommended) |
| Xilinx Alliance Series |
Legacy support available |
| Third-Party Synthesis |
Synplify, Leonardo Spectrum compatible |
| Simulation Tools |
ModelSim, NC-Verilog, VCS supported |
| Programming Software |
iMPACT, ChipScope Pro |
Development Workflow
The typical design flow for XC4044XLA-09HQ208I includes:
- Design Entry: Schematic capture or HDL coding (VHDL/Verilog)
- Functional Simulation: Pre-synthesis verification
- Synthesis: Logic optimization and technology mapping
- Implementation: Place and route operations
- Timing Analysis: Static timing verification
- Bitstream Generation: Configuration file creation
- Device Programming: JTAG or other programming methods
Electrical Characteristics and Reliability
Power Supply Requirements
| Power Parameter |
Typical |
Maximum |
| Core Voltage (VCCINT) |
3.3V |
3.465V |
| I/O Voltage (VCCIO) |
3.3V |
3.465V |
| Standby Current |
25 mA |
50 mA |
| Active Current |
Design dependent |
500 mA |
| Power Consumption |
0.5W – 2.0W |
3.0W |
Environmental and Reliability Specifications
| Parameter |
Specification |
| ESD Protection |
HBM: 2000V, CDM: 500V |
| Latch-up Immunity |
>100 mA @ 125°C |
| Junction Temperature |
-40°C to +125°C |
| Storage Temperature |
-65°C to +150°C |
| MTBF |
>1,000,000 hours |
| Qualification Level |
Industrial/Military standards |
Package and Thermal Management
HQFP208 Package Features
The Heat-Sink Quad Flat Pack (HQFP) with 208 pins provides several thermal advantages:
- Enhanced Heat Dissipation: Integrated heat sink design for improved thermal performance
- Compact Footprint: 28mm x 28mm body size optimizes PCB real estate
- Robust Pin Structure: 0.5mm pitch ensures reliable solder joints
- Thermal Resistance: θJA = 25°C/W (with airflow)
- Recommended Copper Area: Minimum 4 square inches for thermal pad
PCB Design Recommendations
| Design Aspect |
Recommendation |
| PCB Layers |
Minimum 4 layers (6-8 layers optimal) |
| Power Plane Separation |
Dedicated VCCINT and VCCIO planes |
| Decoupling Capacitors |
0.1μF ceramic at each power pin |
| Bulk Capacitance |
10μF tantalum per voltage rail |
| Trace Impedance |
50Ω for high-speed signals |
| Via Size |
0.3mm drill minimum |
Programming and Configuration Options
Configuration Modes
The XC4044XLA-09HQ208I supports multiple configuration methods:
- Master Serial Mode: Device controls external PROM
- Slave Serial Mode: External controller provides data
- JTAG Boundary Scan: IEEE 1149.1 compliant programming
- SelectMAP Mode: Parallel configuration interface
- Master Parallel: High-speed parallel loading
Configuration Memory Options
| Memory Type |
Capacity |
Part Numbers |
| Serial PROM |
1 Mbit – 4 Mbit |
XC1701, XC1704 series |
| Platform Flash |
In-system programmable |
XCF series |
| External Flash |
User-defined |
Various vendors |
Ordering Information and Part Number Breakdown
Part Number Decoding: XC4044XLA-09HQ208I
| Position |
Code |
Meaning |
| XC |
– |
Xilinx product prefix |
| 4044 |
– |
Device size (44,000 gates) |
| XL |
– |
Extended lifecycle family |
| A |
– |
Advanced low-power variant |
| -09 |
Speed |
Speed grade (227 MHz) |
| HQ |
– |
Heat-Sink Quad Flat Pack |
| 208 |
– |
208 pins |
| I |
Temp |
Industrial temperature (-40°C to +100°C) |
Available Grade Options
| Temperature Grade |
Operating Range |
Part Suffix |
| Commercial |
0°C to +85°C |
C |
| Industrial |
-40°C to +100°C |
I |
| Military |
-55°C to +125°C |
M (special order) |
Comparison with Similar FPGA Devices
XC4000XLA Family Comparison
| Device |
CLBs |
Gates |
User I/O |
Max Frequency |
Package Options |
| XC4036XLA |
1,296 |
36,000 |
192 |
227 MHz |
HQ208, HQ240, BG352 |
| XC4044XLA |
1,600 |
44,000 |
166 |
227 MHz |
HQ208, HQ240, HQ304 |
| XC4052XLA |
1,936 |
52,000 |
204 |
227 MHz |
HQ240, HQ304, BG432 |
| XC4062XLA |
2,304 |
62,000 |
256 |
227 MHz |
HQ240, BG352, BG432 |
Quality Assurance and Compliance
Industry Standards and Certifications
The XC4044XLA-09HQ208I meets or exceeds the following standards:
- RoHS Compliance: Lead-free versions available
- REACH Regulation: EU chemicals regulation compliant
- IPC Standards: J-STD-020 moisture sensitivity
- JEDEC Standards: JESD22 environmental testing
- ISO Certification: Manufactured in ISO 9001 facilities
Testing and Screening
| Test Type |
Standard |
Coverage |
| Functional Test |
100% |
All devices |
| Burn-in |
JEDEC JESD22-A108 |
Selected lots |
| Temperature Cycling |
JEDEC JESD22-A104 |
Sample basis |
| HALT/HASS |
MIL-STD-883 |
Available on request |
Support and Documentation Resources
Technical Documentation Available
- Datasheet: Complete electrical and functional specifications
- User Guide: Detailed architecture and design guidelines
- Application Notes: Design best practices and solutions
- Errata Sheets: Known issues and workarounds
- Package Drawings: Mechanical specifications and dimensions
- PCB Layout Guidelines: Board design recommendations
Training and Technical Support
Engineers implementing the XC4044XLA-09HQ208I have access to:
- Online design tutorials and webinars
- Community forums and knowledge bases
- FAE (Field Application Engineer) support
- Reference designs and IP cores
- Migration guides from previous generations
Legacy Support and Long-Term Availability
Product Lifecycle Status
The XC4044XLA-09HQ208I is currently in extended lifecycle status, with availability through:
- Rochester Electronics: Licensed manufacturer for Xilinx legacy devices
- Authorized Distributors: Select electronics distributors maintain stock
- Aftermarket Sources: Certified component brokers and surplus dealers
Recommended Alternatives and Migration Paths
For new designs or product refresh projects, consider these modern alternatives:
| Modern FPGA |
Equivalent Logic |
Advantages |
| Spartan-6 LX45 |
43,000 LC |
Lower power, higher performance |
| Spartan-7 XC7S50 |
52,000 LC |
Latest technology, DDR3 support |
| Artix-7 35T |
33,000 LC |
Advanced DSP, high-speed transceivers |
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is the XC4044XLA-09HQ208I still in production?
A: The device is manufactured under license by Rochester Electronics LLC, ensuring continued availability for legacy system support and critical applications requiring the exact part number.
Q: What is the difference between -09HQ208C and -09HQ208I variants?
A: The suffix indicates the temperature grade. The “C” denotes commercial grade (0°C to +85°C), while “I” represents industrial grade (-40°C to +100°C), offering extended temperature operation for harsh environments.
Q: Can I program this FPGA with modern Xilinx software?
A: Yes, ISE Design Suite versions 10.1 through 14.7 support the XC4000XLA family. Note that newer Vivado Design Suite does not support this legacy device family.
Q: What programming cables are compatible?
A: Standard Xilinx programming cables including Platform Cable USB, Platform Cable USB II, and MultiLINX are all compatible for JTAG programming.
Q: Are there drop-in pin-compatible replacements?
A: While some XC4000XLA family members share package options, always verify pinouts carefully. For exact replacements, specify the complete part number including package and temperature grade.
Conclusion
The XC4044XLA-09HQ208I represents a proven, reliable FPGA solution for industrial and mission-critical applications requiring the combination of moderate logic density, industrial temperature operation, and long-term support. With 1,600 CLBs, 27,000 gates, and robust 208-pin HQFP packaging, this device continues to serve legacy systems while providing cost-effective solutions for specialized applications.
Whether maintaining existing equipment, developing industrial control systems, or implementing specialized digital logic, the XC4044XLA-09HQ208I offers the performance, reliability, and support needed for demanding projects. Its extended lifecycle status through licensed manufacturing ensures availability for years to come, making it a dependable choice for long-term system deployments.
For comprehensive solutions and additional FPGA resources, explore the complete range of Xilinx FPGA products and development tools available through authorized channels and technical partners.
